Effects of voltage-gated sodium channels on the median effective dose of ropivacaine in diabetic rats

dose did not exacerbate neurophysiological dysfunction, histological damage, or alter Navs/CASPR expression in diabetic nerves compared with saline-treated diabetic group, demonstrating a favorable safety profile. These findings elucidate the mechanism underlying reduced local anesthetic requirements in diabetic neuropathy, which involves Navs downregulation and structural nerve alterations, and support the clinical use of lower, effective ropivacaine doses in diabetic patients to achieve successful analgesia without increasing neurotoxicity risk.